Is your smartphone or tablet vulnerable to a virus attack?

Did you know that it is not only desktop computers that can be attacked by viruses?

Smartphones and tablets are also vulnerable, and the Australian Government Stay Smart Online Alert Service has recently issued two warnings in relation to such devices.

Both alerts have High Priority so if you have a relevant device it would be wise to explore further and take appropriate action if necessary.

The alerts are:

iOS update issued to address vulnerability: Alert Priority High

Apple has released a security update for the iOS mobile operating system that runs on devices such as iPhones, iPads and the iPod touch. The update addresses a vulnerability that, according to US-CERT, ‘may allow a remote attacker to take control of an affected system’.

Apple has made the update available for iPhone 4s and later, iPad 2 and later and iPod touch (5th generation and later). You are advised to review the Apple advisory here (https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT207026) and apply the update as required.

Updates close vulnerabilities in computer systems that remote attackers can otherwise use to gain access to systems or information (such as online banking details). A vulnerability is a weakness that can leave a computer and its systems open to attack. Attacks can be carried out a number of ways, including through malicious software (malware) such as viruses and spyware that can monitor a users’ activity on a computer and stop systems operating properly.

Around 10 million Australian Android devices affected by Quadrooter: Alert Priority High

New vulnerabilities have reportedly been uncovered that may affect up to 10 million smartphones and tablets in Australia. The vulnerabilities are believed to potentially allow attackers to take control of devices running the popular Android mobile operating system.

According to news reports, because the ‘Quadrooter’ vulnerabilities reportedly exist in software drivers for chipsets commonly used in Android devices, users need to rely on updates being provided by distributors or telecommunications companies. These businesses need first to receive the updates from Qualcomm, the vendor whose chipsets are reportedly affected by the vulnerability.

Security researchers claim that attackers could use a malicious application to infiltrate an unprotected Android device and gain access to sensitive information without a user knowing.

According to the researchers, the list of affected manufacturers includes the most popular smartphones in Australia, including devices from:

• Google

• Samsung

• Sony

• LG

The reports reinforce the importance of applying software updates as they become available, and avoiding downloading and installing suspicious apps.

You are advised to ensure that your Android device is set to automatically receive security updates, and to ensure the latest updates have been applied. In the case of Quadrooter, you may check with your telecommunications provider as to the availability of a security update for your smartphone, tablet or similar device. Stay Smart Online also advises that you only install trusted apps from official app stores, especially on devices that carry any personal information.

Smartphones and tablets are portable computers, and should be treated as such. This includes installing antivirus software and being careful when running apps or opening files from untrusted sources.

If you wish to visit Stay Smart Online it can be found at www.staysmartonline.gov.au and you can subscribe to receive alerts as they are issued.

(Source: Neighbourhood WatchQueensland Blog post dated 10 August 2016 with some editorial changes)